Around the College 

To our volunteers - THANK YOU  💐

In honour of National Volunteer Week, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the hardworking members of the Nazareth College Community Association (NCCA) for their outstanding contribution to our school community.

This week alone, they provided food for hundreds of students on Cross Country Day - just one example of the many ways they support our college throughout the year.

We would also like to acknowledge our outgoing President, Pauline, and thank her for her six years of dedicated service to the Nazareth community. At the same time, we warmly welcome Aretha as she takes on the role of President.

To all NCCA members, past and present - thank you. Your time, effort, and commitment are truly appreciated.

Ms Jerry Penny

Marketing Manager

Encounter Evening

The Encounter Evening was held at St Roch’s Glen Iris. The event began with pizza and then fun games. Following was a talk on Forgiveness at this Encounter Evening which 8 Nazarenes from Year 8-12 attended. Some of our students were regulars at Encounters or ACYF events, but it was great to have new students join us. 

James a young adult from Melbourne Youth spoke candidly about how forgiving others helps one’s self. He began his reflection asking students to “Think of one thing impossible in your life.” He then recounted about his relationship with his Dad. As a young boy they did lots together. He then made the Prodigal Son link, but in this instance it was his Dad who chose to go his own way. James felt angry and resentful - and carried these negative emotions as a teen. Little did he realise this, yet it was impacting all aspects of his life. James couldn’t be his true self. He experienced resistance within himself. He turned away in fear and shame. When he eventually turned to prayer, he shared painful things about his Dad. The priest asked him to forgive his Dad, and he thought he had. Resistant and clenched, he couldn’t pray. With time and effort, James’ hands then began to open and he felt a wave of peace come over him. He started to see all the things his Dad had done for him. To see how great he was and that being unforgiving, blinded him. 

James explained our Lord is asking us to bring things we feel impossible to him. With him miracles are possible in our lives. James challenged participants “Are you prepared to let him in?" Even if you aren’t sure or ready, ask him. Where are the places that hurt, people that hurt, where do I need to speak out. Where do you want me? What do you want me to do? Have the grace to be open and the courage to say yes. 

Following this recount, small groups formed to ponder: 

When have you experienced forgiveness from another? What was it like for you? When have you struggled to forgive someone and how has it impacted you?

Lastly, Adoration and Reconciliation were offered in the beautiful St Roch’s Church, with Fr Michael. 

- Ali, Ananya, Tayah, Aly, George, Tia, Sofia and Cherine, Miss Imogen Van Rensburg & Ms Caitlin Mackay

Year 10 Bagel Bonanza

Recently, our Year 10 Food Studies students are designing a savoury recipe for a bagel filling, which is flavourful, creative and on trend. They were required to plate up their dish after they produced it so they needed to consider appropriate photography techniques such as colour, garnishing, props, and angles.

The recipe developed needed to contain no more than 8 ingredients. Ingredients used needed to reflect the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating. To meet the guidelines, the students needed to include at least 3 vegetables. The recipe should be considered “quick” and take less than 30 minutes to prepare. 

The bagels produced were attractive and delicious!

Well Done 👏

Ms Kate Goodwin

Instructional Leader

Technology

The Playground

A familiar smell,

The ground full of tanbark,

The monkey bar everyone fell off and broke their arm.

The flying fox that was collecting rust that most definitely caused everyone to feel harm.

The memories flicker in front of me every time I walk past.

Especially of me slipping on a hill and ending up in a cast.

The neighbourhood boys who would always want to play,

We stayed up day and night, even when it rained.

The bike races we used to have around the road

And the winner of the race would always brag and boast.

I wonder where they are now and what they could do

I wonder if they walk past the playground and think of their childhood.

I wonder if the memories flicker back like they do to me.

It's very different now, now that I'm an older teen.

-Sophia Guanzon Yr 8

The World of Literature

Turning, just turning every browned page

A gallery of lettered stars in their sky

My only refuge from Reality's cage

Are these paper wings that won't cease to fly

From their home, a scholarly sanctuary

Home for otherworldly stories to come.

This wonderful place - this 'library'

That I venture to other realms from -

To think it's as simple as grabbing a tome

And delving into worlds like none other

So after it all, you won't want to go home

But instead, you'd go search for another.

Is my freedom here in the world that I see

Or inside the book that so enthralls me?

-Zoe Casequin Yr 8

Year 8  Science Feature : Cell Cookies

Our Year 8 students recently brought science to life (and to their tastebuds!) by creating their very own edible cells as part of their current unit on Cells.

Using cookies, jam for cytoplasm, and a variety of lollies, students represented key organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, and more. From Maltesers as the “control centre” to jelly beans powering the cell, each model helped bring abstract concepts to life in a fun and memorable way.

To consolidate their understanding, students also completed a short knowledge quiz, reinforcing the structure and function of each organelle.

A fun, engaging, hands-on lesson that was just as delicious as it was educational!

Mr Brendan Newcomb

Teacher

House Cross Country

Recently, we held our annual House Cross Country, which took on an exciting new look this year with a fresh course designed around the space behind and surrounding the College. 

This new addition to our Cross Country program proved to be a fantastic success, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from both students and staff. It was fantastic to see so many students getting involved, challenging themselves, and proudly representing their Houses. 

🎉A big congratulations to all participants for their effort, determination, and outstanding House spirit throughout the event.

House Results:

⭐1st Place: Chisholm 

⭐2nd Place: Mannix 

⭐3rd Place: McKillop 

⭐4th Place: McCormack 

⭐5th Place: Knox 

⭐6th Place: McAuley 

Following this event, our top-performing runners were selected to represent Nazareth at the SIS Cross Country Championships.

SIS Cross Country Championships

On Tuesday 26 May, our team competed at Casey Fields Athletics Track in Division B of the SIS Cross Country. Nazareth finished an impressive 4th overall—a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the team’s hard work and commitment.

Our students should be extremely proud of the way they represented both themselves and the College. Their perseverance, encouragement of one another, and exceptional school spirit were on display throughout the entire day. It was especially pleasing to see students continually supporting their teammates and never giving up.

Special Congratulations to Our Medallists:

🎖️Advika K – 3rd Place, Under 13 Girls 

🎖️Carissa T – 2nd Place, Under 14 Girls 

🎖️Antoni F – 3rd Place, Under 14 Boys 

🎖️Isabella M – 2nd Place, Under 16 Girls 

These are outstanding achievements, and we are incredibly proud of your efforts!

A huge thank you to all students who participated and represented Nazareth with pride. We encourage everyone to keep active and start preparing for next year—we look forward to building on this success in future Cross Country events!

Mr Brendan Newcomb

Sports Coordinator and

Teacher

New Faces at Nazareth

My name is Louis Carvalho and I come from a strong hands‑on background with over 15 years of experience across carpentry, fabrication and workshop environments. 

This year, I’ll be working in the Technology/Woodwork department, supporting teachers and students in the workshop. 

I’ve always enjoyed helping others learn new skills, and I connect well with teenagers, especially when it comes to building their confidence with tools and practical tasks. 

Outside of work, I’m family‑focused, and in my spare time I enjoy working on cars and restoring old furniture. I’m really looking forward to this new experience and contributing to a positive, supportive learning environment.

Mr Louis Carvalho

Wood Technician

Hey guys! My name is Stephanie Johnston and I have been given the opportunity at Nazareth College to be a Learning support officer. I am currently completing my certificate IV in Education Support. My background is mainly retail, and I decided I wanted to make a career change. I am enjoying get to know everyone and getting to work with such supportive and incredible peers. 

In my spare time, I enjoy going to the beach with my German Shepherd and going to festivals with friends. During the footy season, I am barracking for the Western Bulldogs! 

I cannot wait to continue this journey at Naz.

Ms Stephanie Johnston

Learning Support

Unit 1 Biology - Rat Dissection

As part of their studies of Functioning Systems, the Unit 1 Biology students partook in the dissection of a rat last Friday.

Dissections help students to get a three-dimensional view of how the body systems work together and in this instance the students were observing how the rats organs were arranged spatially and how the different body systems were situated relative to one another.

Despite the initial hesitation ( and the smell ); the students were interested in exploring the compact organisation of the rats organs and comparing the digestive organs to that of a human being.

Ms Sally Ferns

Instructional Leader

Science

Year 10 Health & PE / VET Sport & Recreation

Year 10 Physical Education and Recreation students, alongside VET Sport, Aquatics and Recreation students, recently participated in a series of dynamic excursions designed to showcase diverse lifelong fitness options. The program aimed to introduce students to engaging recreational opportunities available both now and after completing school.

The cohort first tackled the iconic 1000 Steps Kokoda Memorial Track. This challenging walk tested their physical endurance while teaching them about sacrifice and courage of the Australians who fought during WWII to defend our nation and the benefits of nature-based fitness. 

Shifting focus to skill acquisition and leisure, students then visited the Morack Golf Driving Range and Mini Golf course. Here, they practiced precision, patience, and coordination in a social setting. 

The program concluded with a high-energy trip to Zone Bowling in Clayton, where friendly competition highlighted the community and social health aspects of tenpin bowling. These excursions successfully demonstrated that staying active extends far beyond traditional team sports.

I wish to thank Ms Amy Durham, Miss Caitlin Trustum, Miss Tenille Kirk, and Mr Jimmy Carlyle for assisting on these excursions.

Mr Andrew Moore

Instructional Leader

Health & Physical Education

Year 10 Law & Order - Pentridge Prison Excursion

'On 13 May, our Year 10 Law & Order classes went to Pentridge Prison which taught us about the history of prisons in Victoria and the harsh conditions prisoners had faced. 

We learnt about infamous prisoners who were held there and the different reasons that had them jailed.

The most interesting part was learning about H Division, where prisoners were kept in very strict conditions and treated harshly as punishment. 

Visiting Pentridge Prison was a great experience because it helped us understand what life was like for prisoners and brought Victoria's criminal history to life.' 

-Shiloh Brown Yr 10

🔥 House Competition Heat Check! 🔥

McAuley House kicked things off last week with an epic Lunchtime Planking Competition, and our students absolutely stepped up.

Across four days, they planked their hearts out - earning points for their House and extra points for year‑level wins. The energy was huge, the support was loud, and the competition was fierce. No doubt a new Nazareth planking record was set in the Final Challenge!

🏆 Big congratulations to McCormack House for taking the overall win! 

👏 And a massive shout‑out to McAuley House for setting up an awesome first event of the year.

Let’s keep the House spirit rolling with Mannix House hosting the next Lunchtime House Competition!

Ms Gabriella Spano

Head of House - McAuley

Year 7 Zoo Animal Incursion

'The Year 7 Animal Incursion was a blast; we got to meet lots of different animals.

I would say that this experience was the coolest since we were able to learn a lot and get a good understanding of them.  

The first animal that we met was a Shingleback Lizard. It had tough, scale-like skin that looked hard but was soft. One of the coolest facts about this is the way it appears to have two heads. This is because of its tail that looks like a head. Shinglebacks live a long life and usually stay loyal to one mate. 

We also met a slimy Green Tree Frog which had smooth, wet skin. An amusing fact about a frog is that it does not need to drink through its mouth but absorbs all water through its skin. One of my classmates got to hold the frog which was cool and it jumped off her hand which was funny. 

We met a crocodile that had pointed teeth, massive jaws and scale-like skin. We were told that crocodiles make great swimmers and can remain completely still in water waiting for prey. I was lucky enough to hold it which was fun and scary at the same time!

In conclusion, the incursion was really fun and it taught me lots about different animals. I’m glad I was able to experience this.'

-Patrick Feleppa Yr 7

Last week the Year 7 Science students were excited to welcome a number of Native Australian animals from Wild Action Zoo https://wildaction.com.au/ as part of their studies of Animal Classification and Ecosystems.

The students were introduced to animals from four of the five vertebrate classes -reptiles, amphibians, mammals and birds and learnt about their scientific names and their various features and characteristics.

There were also opportunities to pat the animals and many students were also able to hold the animals. 

Ms Sally Ferns

Instructional Leader

Science

🏊🏽VSAC Representation

This year, Nazareth College had five students selected to represent SIS at the 2026 Victorian School Associations Competition (VSAC). This is an outstanding achievement, with students competing against some of Victoria’s fastest school-aged swimmers in their respective age groups.

Congratulations to Rainn Lee, Raven Lee, Andrew Dinh, Lucas Dinh and Miguel Lobangco on their performances throughout the carnival. Highlights included Rainn Lee placing 2nd in the Boys 12–13 50m Butterfly and 3rd in the 50m Freestyle, while Andrew Dinh won the Men’s 15–18 Multi-Class 50m Butterfly event and also achieved two 2nd-place finishes. Lucas Dinh also recorded strong performances in the Boys 14–15 events, with Raven Lee and Miguel Lobangco contributing strongly across relay events for SIS.

Congratulations to all students on representing Nazareth College and SIS with pride. We look forward to continuing to improve and build on these fantastic results in future years.

Mr Luke Georgakopoulos

Sports Assistant

Year 8 Humanities Medieval Incursion

The Year 8 Humanities incursion on Tuesday 26 May 2026 was presented by Medieval Education and Entertainment. The two presenters, Lorenzo and Bronwyn, introduced our students to three medieval cultures: Latin, Japanese and Muslim. These presenters captivated our student audience with a combination of audience participation, maps, timelines, power point images, medieval costumes and weaponry in a one-hour fast moving session in Wheelers Auditorium. 

Below are the reflections from two of the Year 8 students: Saskia Sutianto, 8D Humanities and Xavier Du, 8A Humanities.

'On 26 May, all Year 8s attended an incursion about medieval Latin, Japan and Islam. The two performers provided a thorough understanding of the three cultures and allowed for audience participation. Student volunteers were able to showcase weapons, armoury and costumes. Overall, this was a great learning experience that was not only informative but engaging. The fact you could volunteer to wear the armour and wield the weapons was a creative idea that engaged the audience. In the future I would hope to have something like this incursion again.’

-Saskia Sutianto Yr 8

‘Throughout the incursion, students learnt new and fascinating things about the classical medieval eras in the Japanese, Latin and Islamic periods. The two presenters explained in an entertaining manner how each classical period indirectly linked with each other. In the medieval Latin period warriors were called knights. Knights typically were born into rich families and held power due to their wealth. Knights with their wealth and resources were able to gain loyal workers. Eventually monarchs created standing armies, and this hastened the decline of the knight’s influence by the commencement of the modern period in 1500 CE.

Japanese medieval culture began to resemble medieval Europe with the samurai (equivalent to knights) serving the local lords (daimyo) for wealth and land. With the increased power of the emperor by the mid- nineteenth century, the samurai’s influence slowly declined. 

Lastly, medieval Islam called their warriors, Faris or Fursan (plural). Fursan wore chain mail, but the immense heat caused them to cover it with clothes. This sparked a great idea for a disguise. People from medieval Islam called medieval Europe a place for slaves of both boys and girls. To unite their countries, they conquered all of them. Warriors were made tax collectors and their assistants slave soldiers. Overall, the incursion was great, but it could have been improved with more time being made available for the presentation.'

-Xavier Du Yr 8

Mr Philip Ryan

Teacher

VCE VCD - Top Designs and Monash University Caulfield Excursion

To support our VCE Visual Communication Design and VCE Product Design and Technology: Textiles and Woodwork students, an excursion to Top Designs at Melbourne Museum occurred on May 27. This allowed students to see highly commended folios and design solutions that were produced by students from all around Victoria. It is hoped that these students will be able to draw inspiration from these folios and Design Solutions for their own folios and final presentations, now and into the future.

VCE Visual Communication Design students were then privileged to tour Monash University, Caulfield Campus, to see the experiences and opportunities that future tertiary studies in Design could provide them. Students visited the Wood and Metal (WaM) Workshop to see the equipment, materials and tools used by design students to create their prototypes. In this space, we were also treated to a talk and demonstration from Associate Professor Dr. Robbie Napper about what students can expect from studying Industrial/Product Design at Monash University. We also ventured through the Fine Art and Architectures Studios to see what students were up to. Additionally, one of the last stops on the tour was the dFab (Digital Fabrication) Workshop to see laser cutters and 3D Printers in action.

Thank-you to Melbourne Museum and Monash University for providing our students with these opportunities, and to our staff of Sue Formanek, Bessie Murphy, and Heather O’Brien for helping coordinate and facilitate these visual experiences for our students. Please take a look at the photos from the excursion.

Mr Rosario Ripper

Teacher